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Naomi Osaka reached the Roland Garros third round for the first time in seven years by defeating Donna Vekic. The four-time Grand Slam champion won 7-6(1), 6-4 on Thursday.
From decades of failure, France has built an unmatched talent development system, making them a top contender for the 2026 World Cup. Their squad depth is so impressive that even players left off the roster would form a top-five global lineup. The system, rooted in state-backed academies and street football culture, has produced generational talent and sustained success.
Undefeated in qualifying, the Netherlands enter the 2026 World Cup with an outside chance of winning their first title, despite key injury setbacks. Ronald Koeman's side boasts a solid defence, a world-class midfield led by Tijjani Reijnders, and enough attacking threat to trouble any opponent.
A friendly match between Ireland and Qatar was twice interrupted by pro-Palestinian protests, sparking concerns over upcoming Nations League matches against Israel. Midfielder Jamie McGrath warned the controversy could escalate, while the FAI confirms it will proceed with the fixtures.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni confirmed Lionel Messi will captain the team at the 2026 World Cup, downplaying concerns over a hamstring injury. The 38-year-old sustained the issue during Inter Miami's 6-4 win over Philadelphia, but Scaloni said it is not serious. Messi's sixth World Cup appearance would be a personal record.
The Senegalese Football Federation (FSF) has denied rumors that head coach Pape Thiaw refused to travel to the US for World Cup preparations due to a contract dispute, attributing the nearly 8-hour flight delay to logistical issues like flight permits and visas. The FSF emphasized team unity and ongoing contract discussions.
Victor Wembanyama scored 28 points as the San Antonio Spurs forced a decisive seventh game against the Oklahoma City Thunder with a 118-91 victory in the Western Conference finals. The winner will meet the New York Knicks in the NBA Finals.
Iran's ambassador to Mexico criticized the US for not issuing visas to the Iranian football team for the 2026 World Cup, saying the team cannot compete on a 'level playing field' due to training obstacles. The team moved its training camp to Tijuana, Mexico, after original plans in Arizona fell through. Iran will play group matches in Los Angeles and Seattle.
A friendly match between Ireland and Qatar in Dublin was twice interrupted by home fans protesting Ireland’s upcoming Nations League games against Israel. Tennis balls with Palestinian flags were thrown onto the pitch, prompting pauses in play. The protests reflect ongoing calls for a boycott of the Israel fixtures, which the FAI has said will proceed as scheduled.
Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal will meet in the Champions League final on Saturday at the Puskas Arena. PSG are defending champions after a 5-0 win over Inter Milan last year, while Arsenal aim for their first European crown.
